She ate her not-so-early breakfast silently, then looked at the boy who had been standing motionless. “Is there anything else?”
The hand hidden in the sleeve, holding the handkerchief, moved slightly. He wanted to point out that his young master’s clothing and hairstyle were not appropriate for a married man, but facing that indifferent and slightly impatient expression… he would surely only receive a cold glance and dared not speak.
“Please give your orders, master.”
Qi’er lowered his head, his voice slightly trembling. Xu Wanzhi thought this youth was far too cautious, lacking the lively spirit a boy his age should have.
“I’ll call you if I need something. Go do your own work now.”
Suddenly, urgent footsteps approached from the courtyard. Qi’er bowed and retreated, then returned, lowering his head: “Master, someone from Hanzhang Court says the young master is ill and requests you to come and see.”
“Hmm?” Xu Wanzhi’s brow slightly furrowed, remembering that this “young master” was “her” son.
Tapping the table’s edge, she paused and then nodded: “Okay.”
Qi’er followed closely behind, looking at the dark, serene figure ahead. This master, who didn’t usually care much, still cared about the young master, occasionally sitting in his courtyard. Recently, however, her behavior had been strange and unpredictable, lacking not just the bearing of a male master, but barely recognizing people.
If she refused to go today, how long could he use her “indisposition” as an excuse? While thinking this, they had already arrived at Hanzhang Court. The leading servant stopped and gave a signal.
Looking up, Xu Wanzhi had already entered the room supposedly belonging to her son. Several men stood in the room, with a middle-aged woman leaning over the bed. The woman examining the patient was presumably the doctor.
“Master.” Everyone was startled by her silent entrance. The male servants held their items and performed an odd salute.
As always, Xu Wanzhi pretended not to see. She walked directly past them, moving forward curiously to see the child—after all, this was “her” first son.
The young boy noticed the change in atmosphere and nudged his doctor. The woman turned and was about to scold her when she heard a low, clear voice: “How is the child? Nothing serious?”
